Detective Inspector Louise Harvie is leading the hunt for the attacker.

She told the Paisley Daily Express: “Merksworth Way is one of three streets with a grassy area joining them all.

"The lady was cutting across the path in that grassy area when she was attacked by the man.

“She hadn’t seen anybody about and just remembers him approaching her and then attacking her.

“Thankfully the woman got help from someone in one of the houses nearby and police were called."

The woman was rushed to the Royal Alexandra Hospital shortly after the ordeal at 2.20am on Sunday.

She has been left badly shaken but has since been released.

The brute is described as white, around 5ft 7, well-built, with dark spiky hair and is believed to have an Eastern European accent.

He was wearing a dark hooded top - which he had up - and jeans.

He ran off in the direction of Glasgow Airport.

DI Harvie says patrols have been stepped up and urged those with concerns to speak to officers.

She added: "The area is residential so it’s possible that someone may have heard either a disturbance or shouting that was out of the ordinary.

"Either that or they may have seen the man hanging about the area.

“This was a terrifying attack for the lady to go through.

"It is vital we catch this man, so if you have any information that you may think will help police with their enquiries, then please contact Paisley Police Office via 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 where details can be given in confidence."